Sunita joined the BJD, along with hundreds of her followers, in the presence of incumbent CM and BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik.While welcoming the new workers of the party, Patnaik said, 'I welcome them to the party. I am sure they will strengthen the party further.'On being asked, Sunita said, 'I was drawn to the party due to its women empowerment schemes like Mission Shakti. The efforts being made for 33% reservation in Parliament is also commendable. KALIA scheme for development of farmers is also a priority for the party.'

'All of this attracted me and I was also inspired by CM's dedication and political will to make Odisha a great state in the nation. I pledge to work for the people's development,' she concluded.